A boxing gym is set to be developed in Labasa with the aim of rejuvenating both amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. This initiative was discussed by Labasa Town Council special administrator Samuela Ligairi during an interview with SUNsports last Saturday, following the South Pacific Boxing Promotion event at Subrail Park.
The return of professional boxing to Labasa marks the end of a nine-year hiatus. Ligairi expressed the council’s commitment to reviving the sport through this new project. The chosen location for the gym is near the botanical garden at Lions Park, and construction is expected to begin shortly, with potential funding from the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji.
Ligairi revealed that the facility will feature a boxing ring for training and will be a fully equipped gym. The decision to establish this gym stems from the limitations of space at Nasekula Gym, and it aims to provide a more spacious environment for boxing enthusiasts.
Collaborations are underway between the Labasa Town Council and the Macuata Rugby Union (MRU) to develop a larger gym in the area. The MRU previously contributed to the establishment of the Nasekula gym, providing equipment donated by the Silktails Rugby League Club. The council also encourages other Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to participate in this development effort.
Ligairi emphasized that this initiative could enhance the council’s finances while attracting more individuals to the sport and helping them discover their potential. Additionally, events such as the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament, the Vodafone Deans Trophy for secondary schools rugby, and boxing promotions have revitalized the community in Vanua Levu.
“This is a holistic approach that benefits not only the council but also the local economy, allowing hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants to share in the profits,” Ligairi concluded.